Theodore Simko, 79, of Harding, passed away Tuesday, May 24th at the Celtic Hospice, Geisinger South Wilkes-Barre. He was born in Pittston, June 4th, 1936 and was the son of the late Andrew and Mary (Soska) Simko.
Theodore attended Harding Schools. He worked for Star Garment in West Pittston for 15 years and retired from PennDOT after 37 years of employment. Ted was the owner and operator of Simko Towing, Harding. He served as the Harding Fire Department Fire Chief for many years and served a PA State Constable for over 20 years as well. Ted was a very proud donor to the American Red Cross and was happy to have donated over 12 gallons of blood during his life. He was a loving husband, father, grandfather, brother, and friend and he will be deeply missed by all who knew and loved him.
In addition to his parents, he is preceded in death by his wife, Anna (Halagarda) Simko, who died in May of 2004; his son, Paul Simko; and brothers, Albert, Andrew, and Frank Simko.
Ted is survived by his sons, Theodore Jr. and Kenneth, both of Harding; his grandsons, Theodore “T.J.” III and Joseph Farino; great-grandson, Aiden J. Simko as well as his brother, Jack Simko of Falls; his sister, Patricia Searfoss of Harding and several nieces and nephews.
Funeral services will be held on Friday, May 27th at 7:30pm at Kiesinger Funeral Services Inc., 255 McAlpine St., Duryea with Vicor Kelsie Theiss of St. Paul’s Lutheran Church, Dallas officiating. Friends may call on Friday evening from 5:00pm until time of service. Interment will take place at the Mt. View Cemetery, Harding.
In lieu of flowers, memorial contributions may be made to St. Jude’s Children’s Research Hospital, P.O. Box 1000, Dept 142, Memphis, TN 38101-9908.